Frontiers in Public Health (Jul 2021)

Practical Solutions to Address COVID-19-Related Mental and Physical Health Challenges Among Low-Income Older Adults

  • Caroline D. Bergeron,
  • Caroline D. Bergeron,
  • Ali Boolani,
  • Ali Boolani,
  • Erica C. Jansen,
  • Erica C. Jansen,
  • Matthew Lee Smith,
  • Matthew Lee Smith

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.674847
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9

Abstract

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Low-income older adults are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this perspective article, we review the context in which low-income older people experience the pandemic and the mental and physical health consequences they have faced to date. Then, we offer practical solutions to help improve low-income older adults' sleep, physical activity, nutrition, and stress that require no or low financial commitment. We argue that governments, communities, and organizations should make greater efforts to promote healthy living for low-income older adults in times of health emergencies to ensure their ability to be universally adopted, regardless of income and resources.

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